When most people think of Vodka, they think of Russia. And when they think of tequila, they think of Mexico. But what are the real differences between Vodka and Tequila?

THE SIMILARITIES

The similarities between Vodka and Tequila go beyond just their alcohol by volume (ABV) percentage.

• Both spirits are similarly distilled and produced by a fermentation process. Vodka is produced through the process of fermenting cereal grains such as wheat, rye, and corn. Similarly, Tequila is made by fermenting the agave plant.
• They’re both popular for cocktails and are often used as mixers in drinks.
• They are two of the most consumed hard liquors in the world.

Now that we have had a look at the similarities, let’s look at the differences between vodka and tequila.

THE DIFFERENCES

ORIGINS

VODKA

Because there is little historical material available, historians debate the origins of vodka. Vodka was invented over a thousand years ago in Russia and Eastern Europe.

Because of the high concentration of distilleries in the region, this area is known as the vodka belt. Countries in this region include Poland, Ukraine, Belarus, and the Baltic States.

Each of these nations has its own vodka recipes and traditions.

When American soldiers returned home from World War 1. They spread vodka throughout the country. They discovered that not only was this new drink simple to make, but it was also very versatile.

During World War II, the United States and other western countries began to produce vodka. This made the drink more accessible to people all over the world.

TEQUILA

Tequila is a spirit that has been around for centuries. The Aztecs first made it from the agave plant, and it was consumed as a ceremonial drink. It wasn’t until the Spanish arrived in Mexico in the 16th century that tequila began to be produced commercially.

Tequila didn't hit Europe until the 1800s when commercial production began. It was brought over by Spanish missionaries who were looking to convert the locals to Christianity. At first, Europeans weren't sure what to make of this new spirit. But they eventually came to appreciate its unique flavour and started drinking it in place of vodka.

Tequila became popular in the mid-19th century when it was the drink of choice among Americans, who traded with Mexico. They brought back bottles of tequila and started drinking it in place of vodka. Tequila quickly became popular in the United States, and it remains one of the most popular spirits today.

 

THE DIFFERENCE IN TYPES

There are 5 different types of Tequila - some of the most popular types include:

Tequila Blanco - Tequila Blanco is a type of tequila that is made from unaged, or "white", agave. It is the most popular type of tequila and has a clean, crisp flavour.

Tequila Reposado - Tequila Reposado is a type of tequila that is made from agave that has been aged for 2-11 months. It has a mellower flavour than tequila blanco, and is often used in cocktails.

Tequila Joven - Tequila Joven is a type of tequila that is made from agave that has been blended with aged tequila, again it has a mellower flavour than tequila blanco, and is often used in cocktails.

Tequila Anejo - Tequila Añejo is a type of tequila that is made from agave that has been aged for at least 1 year, but usually for 18 months to 3 years. It has a more complex flavour than other types of tequila and is often enjoyed as a sipping drink.

Extra Anejo - Extra Añejo is a type of tequila that is made from agave that has been aged for at least 3 years, but usually for 5-7 years. It is the most refined and complex type of tequila and is often enjoyed as a sipping drink.

Vodka also has more subtle variations:

Potato Vodka - Vodka can also be made from potatoes. Potato vodka is made by fermenting mashed potatoes. The alcohol content in potato vodka is usually higher than in other types of vodka. This is because potatoes contain more sugar than other vegetables.

Grain Vodka - Grain vodka has a milder taste than vodka made from potatoes. It is also less sweet than vodka made from potatoes. Grain vodka is made from grains such as wheat, barley, or rye.

Flavoured Vodka - Flavoured vodka is a vodka that has been flavoured with different fruits, spices, or herbs. Some of the most popular flavours include cherry, raspberry, vanilla, and peppermint. Flavoured vodka can be flavoured with natural or synthetic ingredients. Natural ingredients include fruits, spices, and herbs. Synthetic ingredients include artificial flavours and sweeteners.

Fruit Vodka - Fruit vodka is a type of vodka that is made from fruits other than grains or potatoes. It can be made from any type of fruit, and the most popular types are apple, pear, and raspberry vodka. Fruit vodka has a sweet flavour and is often used in cocktails.

Herbal/Spice Vodka - Herbal vodka is a type of vodka that is made with herbs. The most popular type is ginger vodka, which is made with ginger root. Herbal vodka has a spicy flavour and is often used in cocktails.

HOW IT'S DRANK?

TEQUILA

Tequila is more formally known as a shot served with lime and salt. It is generally consumed more quickly than vodka and is often considered a "harder" liquor. Tequila is also a popular spirit used in cocktails. It is generally mixed with lime juice and salt, which enhances the flavour of the tequila. Some popular cocktails that include tequila are the Margarita and the Tequila Sunrise.

VODKA

Vodka is a more commonly drank spirit either consumed neat on the rocks or mixed with mixers such as juice or soda. Vodka is also one of the most popular spirits used in thousands of cocktails such as a Cosmopolitan, Passionfruit Martini and a Bloody Mary. But we recommend drinking neat to get the full MOND experience.

APPEARANCE AND TASTE

VODKA

 

Vodka is a clear liquor with a smooth, sweet taste. Vodka is a neutral spirit, with a subtle flavour. Influenced by the ingredients used in its production.

The type of ingredient used has an impact on the flavour of the vodka. Vodka made from potatoes tastes different than vodka made from grains. Because potatoes contain more starch than grains, more sugar is available for fermentation.

This results in a Vodka with a more flavourful flavour than vodka made from grains. 

Certain vodka is flavoured with added ingredients such as herbs, fruits, or spices. This gives the vodka a range of different flavours. Some popular vodka flavours include peppermint, raspberry, and vanilla. 

TEQUILA

Unlike Vodka, Tequila's appearance and taste depend on the process of fermentation. The purest form of tequila is clear and known as 'Tequila Blancho' but is most commonly seen as a golden liquid. Different to vodka tequila has a distinct taste which is an earthier flavour and mildly sweeter than vodka.

DIFFERENCE IN PRODUCTION

INGREDIENTS

Tequila is made from the core of the cultivar of Agave Tequilana, more commonly known as the blue agave plant

The two most common ingredients used to make vodka are potatoes and grains. The potatoes are mashed and then distilled, and the grains are ground and distilled as well.

Vodka is made by distilling a fermented mash. The fermentation process is stopped before all the sugar is converted to alcohol. Leaving the vodka has little flavour.

FERMENTATION PROCESS

To make vodka, a mash must be made that contains active enzymes. These enzymes break down the starches found in the grains or potatoes. Converting them into fermentable sugars. The fermentation process takes three to five days to complete. 

The fermentation process for Tequila is made through a similar process, the blue agave plant is baked and mashed and the liquid is fermented with yeast in barrels for three to five days.

DISTILLATION PROCESS

After the fermentation process is completed, vodka is ready to be distilled. The mash is poured into a still, which is heated until the alcohol begins to boil. The vaporised alcohol rises through the still. This vapour is then collected and cooled, causing the alcohol to revert to a liquid.

Tequila is distilled twice, the first process is conducted in steel distillation columns. During this first distillation the water is removed and alcohol is collected from the fermented blue agave juice. It is then distilled again to obtain the high ABV level.

TEQUILA IS UNIQUE TO MEXICO

 

Tequila is geography-specific to Mexico. The blue agave plant, from which tequila is made, only grows in Mexico making it unique to Mexico. Unlike tequila, vodka is not geography-specific. Originally vodka was made in the regions of Poland and Russia but is now prepared all over the world.

HANGOVER DIFFERENCES

When choosing between Vodka and Tequila understanding the hangover differences is crucial.

Vodka is considered by many to be more hangover-friendly than tequila. This is likely because vodka is less potent than tequila and contains fewer congeners, which are chemicals that can cause hangovers.

Hangovers are often more severe when consuming high sugar content beverages. This is because the sugar in the drink can trigger the release of insulin, which can in turn lead to a blood sugar crash. When blood sugar drops too low, it can cause hangover symptoms such as headache, nausea and weakness. To help with your hangover opt for a sugar-free mixer!

THE DIFFERENCE IN HEALTH BENEFITS

Vodka

First, vodka is a great source of antioxidants. This helps protect your body against free radicals and diseases. One of the reasons vodka is a great source of antioxidants is because it is distilled many times. 

This helps to remove any impurities from the liquor and leaves behind a pure, clean spirit. 

Vodka also has a higher ABV than whiskey. This means that more antioxidants are present in each drink.

Vodka is a source of potassium. Potassium can help regulate blood pressure and prevent heart disease. Vodka is a source of potassium because it is a distilled beverage. During the distilling process, the alcohol is boiled and the water is vaporised. This leaves behind the various compounds in the alcohol, including potassium.

Vodka is a great choice for people who are looking for a lower calorie drink. It has about 97 calories per serving. 

Vodka is made from grains such as corn, wheat, or rye, while whiskey is made from fermented barley and malt. This is one of the reasons vodka is lower in calories- it's not made with any sugar or other additives. 

Finally, vodka is a source of vitamin B6, which is important for energy levels. Vodka is a source of B6 because it is made from wheat.

Tequila

Tequila can help control blood sugar levels and prevent type 2 diabetes as it is extremely low in sugar. Similarly to Vodka, Tequila is also low in calories. Due to its distillation process tequila has no carbohydrates and is a low 65-69 calories per shot (25ml)

Tequila has also been shown to improve your gut health. The agave plant, from which tequila is made, is a rich source of fructans. Fructans are a type of carbohydrate that are prebiotics- meaning they stimulate the growth of good bacteria in your gut.

Finally, Tequila has long been used as a folk remedy to treat the cold and flu. The agave plant, from which tequila is made, is a rich source of saponins. Saponins are a type of natural surfactant that helps to reduce inflammation and fight infection.

THE FINAL VERDICT

Vodka is the most popular spirit on the market. This is because vodka is more versatile and can be paired with a variety of flavours. Vodka also doesn't have the same strong taste as Tequila, making it more palatable for people who don't enjoy Tequilas's strong flavour.

Vodka is undoubtedly the better option with the majority of benefits leading towards it. Yet, if you are looking for the smoothest of vodkas to try, look no further than Mond Vodka.